Atelisite-(Y) is an uncommon silicate mineral characterized by its distinctive yttrium content and prismatic crystal habit. It is primarily found in complex alkaline pegmatites, often associated with other rare-earth-bearing minerals.

Hardness

6-7

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

White

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareGadolinite Group family

Atelisite-(Y)

Hardness: 6-7
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: White
Transparency: Translucent

No image

Is this atelisite-(y)?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch atelisite-(y) with a known reference. Atelisite-(Y) sits at Mohs 6-7 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Atelisite-(Y) leaves a white streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Atelisite-(Y) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: yellow, brown, black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: orthorhombic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals.

Often confused with

Atelisite-(Y) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside atelisite-(y)

Minerals reported to co-occur with atelisite-(y). Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: Y₂Si₂O₇
Mohs hardness: 6-7
Density: 4.2-4.5 g/cm³
Colors: Yellow Brown Black
Streak: White
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Orthorhombic
Crystal habit: Prismatic Crystals
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Alkaline Pegmatites
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find atelisite-(y)

Classic worldwide localities

Hittero, Norway
Ivedal, Norway
Kola Peninsula, Russia

Field-hunting tip

Look in alkaline pegmatites country — that is the host setting where atelisite-(y) typically forms. If you start seeing zircon, fluorite, microcline in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify atelisite-(y)?+

Mohs hardness is 6-7. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is white. Common colors include yellow, brown, black.

Where is atelisite-(y) found?+

Notable localities include Hittero, Norway; Ivedal, Norway; Kola Peninsula, Russia.

How much is atelisite-(y) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is atelisite-(y) safe to handle?+

This mineral is radioactive. Contains minor rare earth elements and thorium which can cause radioactivity; handle with care and wash hands after handling. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like atelisite-(y)?+

Atelisite-(Y) is most often confused with Gadolinite-(Y), Thortveitite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with atelisite-(y)?+

Atelisite-(Y) commonly co-occurs with Zircon, Fluorite, Microcline, Biotite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does atelisite-(y) form in?+

Atelisite-(Y) typically forms in alkaline pegmatites. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is atelisite-(y) used for?+

Atelisite-(Y) is used in collector.

Find atelisite-(y) on the map

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